Key facts
- SCMP is publishing a series on China's Gaokao national college entrance examination.
- The series traces the historical origins of the Gaokao to ancient imperial exams.
- It analyzes the influence of these exams on contemporary education systems.
- The "gaokao effect" on social mobility and aspirations is also a focus.
The South China Morning Post (SCMP) has launched a series dedicated to China's Gaokao, the nation's critical college entrance examination. The series delves into the profound legacy of the country's rigorous testing culture, examining the historical footprint of ancient imperial exams and their influence on modern education systems both within China and internationally. Additionally, the series explores the contemporary "gaokao effect," analyzing its impact on current aspirations and social mobility.